New Sunderland signing Danny Graham insists his Geordie roots won’t stop him trying to become a Mackem hero.

The Newcastle-born forward sealed a £5million switch to the Stadium of Light from Swansea, and Graham, who rejected a deadline day move to former club Middlesbrough, says he’s determined to prove his worth.

‘Of course, I totally understand that some fans might need convincing about my commitment to Sunderland because of my roots, but I’ve always given 100 per cent no matter what team I play for and no matter who I play against.

‘It’s up to me to show people I deserve to wear the Sunderland shirt, and I’m excited about playing for a club as big as this.

Cats nap: Dany Graham has returned to the north east (Picture: AP)

‘I’m really excited about the future – this is a new phase of my career and I can’t wait to get started.’

Graham, who was booed by Black Cats fans at the weekend during the 0-0 draw with Swansea, added that he had no doubts about making the switch once Martin O’Neill came calling.

‘As soon as I heard about the interest from Sunderland I didn’t even have to consider any of the other options that were on the table,’ the 27-year-old told safc.com.

‘I was born and brought up in the north east so I know first-hand the intense passion that people have for their football in this part of the world – it’s special and there’s nowhere else like it.’